Community clubs have reluctantly accepted the new proposals for the amateur game imposed by the RFL – although there could be repercussions.
Fixtures have been released by the National Conference for the two main leagues, and for the regional conferences below, but competitions like the former Cumberland ARL have not been able to issue any fixture lists.
The threat of legal action by the National Conference over the proposals has been removed, albeit reluctantly, and mainly because it would delay or even postpone the 2026 season.
As far as Cumbrian clubs involved in the new-style Conference, they have their fixtures and will start on March 7.
Wath Brow Hornets are the only county side contesting the Premier Division and they face a long, tough trip on the opening day as they are set to travel to West Hull.
The two West Cumbrian sides involved in Division One will meet in an early derby clash as Egremont Rangers will host neighbours Kells.
Below that Divisions Two and Three have been replaced by Regional Conference Leagues with Cumbria among them, and one which hasn’t been well received, particularly in the south of the county.
The opening fixtures have been announced as: Barrow Island v Hensingham; Distington v Ellenborough, Hindpool v Ulverston; Millom v Dalton; Seaton v Maryport.
No details have emerged about the local competition, now to be known as the Cumbria Men’s League, with participating clubs and fixtures still to be announced. It will be run by the RFL.
